The condition of pelvic prolapse is common among women around the globe. Cystoceles and rectoceles are the two types of prolapses that affect pelvic organs. A cystocele is also known as bladder prolapse and occurs when the bladder slides into the vaginal opening. Rectoceles occur when the rectum bulges in the vaginal area. Both conditions cause discomfort and disruption to daily life but are treatable. This article examines the symptoms of cystocele and rectocele repair, as well as its causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
Cystocele And Rectocele Repair Causes & Risk Factors
Several factors cause Cystocele and Rectocele. These include
- Childbirth The risk of prolapse increases when a woman delivers her baby vaginally.
- Aging: As a woman ages, the tissues supporting her pelvic organs naturally deteriorate.
- Chronic Straining: Conditions like constipation or heavy lifting can cause chronic straining.
- Menopause Reduced estrogen levels may cause weakened pelvic tissue during menopause.
- Fat: A large amount of Weight increases pressure on the pelvic floor.
Symptoms
Symptoms can range in severity for both cystoceles and rectoceles.
- There is a feeling of fullness, pressure, or tension in the pelvis or vagina.
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse.
- It is difficult to empty the bladder or bowels.
- Recurrent UTIs
- A bulge that is visible in the vagina.
This can affect a woman’s quality of life, so it is essential to seek advice from a medical professional if these symptoms occur.
Diagnosis
Cystocele and Rectocele are diagnosed by:
- Physical Evaluation: A Pelvic Exam allows the doctor to evaluate the extent and severity of the prolapse.
- Imaging Testing: MRI, X-rays, and Ultrasound can all be used for a clear view of pelvic organs.
- Urinary function tests: These tests measure the functionality of the bladder and rectum as well as any other related problems.
Treatment Alternatives
Treatment depends on the severity of prolapse as well as symptoms. Options include lifestyle changes, nonsurgical treatments, and surgery.
Nonsurgical Treatments
- Kegels (Pelvic Floor Exercises): By strengthening the pelvic floor muscle, mild symptoms can be alleviated.
- Pessaries: An insertion into the vagina is called a pessary. It supports the pelvic ovaries.
- Hormone therapy: Estrogen therapy is a powerful way to strengthen pelvic and vaginal tissues, particularly in postmenopausal females.
- Lifestyle – Losing Weight, avoiding Heavy Lifting, and managing Constipation can help reduce strain on the pelvic floors.
Surgical Treatment
If nonsurgical methods are not successful, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options are:
- Anterior Colporrhaphy (Cystocele Repair). In this procedure, the bladder tissues are tightened. The surgeon makes incisions in the vaginal wall and lifts the uterus back into place. He then reinforces the supporting tissue.
- Rectocele Repair (Posterior Colporrhaphy): During this procedure, the tissues located between the vagina and rectum are repaired. A vaginal wall incision and rectum pushing is performed. The supporting tissues are tightened.
- Gynecectomy: If the prolapse of other pelvic tissues is significant, a hysterectomy may be advised.
- Implants of Synthetic Mesh: The use of synthetic mesh to provide support to the organs in the pelvis is sometimes necessary. Mesh implants have a high risk of complications like infection and erosive erosion.
Recovery, Outcomes and
Recovery from rectocele and cystocele repair depends on the type of surgery performed. Following are some general guidelines to help you recover:
- Hospitalization. Most of the women who have surgery stay in the hospital for one or two days.
- Activity Limitations: You should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for a period of several weeks after your surgery.
- Treatment of pain: While it is normal to experience some discomfort and pain after surgery, these symptoms can often be controlled with medication.
- Follow-up: Regular post-operative appointments are necessary to monitor the healing process and address any complications.
Most women will experience significant relief following surgical repair. Improved bladder and intestinal function, as well as reduced pelvic pain, are common. Although there is the risk of a recurrence, it is important to maintain pelvic-floor health by exercising and making lifestyle modifications.
Conclusion
Cystocele, or pelvic prolapse, is a common condition that can affect a woman’s quality of life. Understanding these conditions, their causes, and the treatment options available is key to effectively managing them. For milder cases, nonsurgical methods can be used to provide relief. However, surgical repair provides a more durable solution for prolapses that are more severe. Consult your doctor if you have symptoms such as cystocele.